There are many unique excursions throughout Kentucky, some more popular than others. In Frankfort, at the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Headquarters complex, you may not know that there are 262 acres to explore, and some of them are home to unique wildlife! This hidden gem in Kentucky is kind of like a small scale zoo, but with plenty of natural habitats for both animals and native plants to thrive. If you haven’t spent time at the Salato Wildlife Education Center yet, you’ll definitely want to check it out.

The Salato Wildlife Education Center in Frankfort is a beautiful part of a larger property that houses the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Services.

GoogleMaps/Cynthia Collins This unique indoor/outdoor wildlife center aims to keep these native animals in their natural habitats, while still allowing visitors to get up close and see how they live.

The indoor space houses several exhibits that walk you through the different types of landscapes in Kentucky. There are also some reptiles and fish to observe, as well as programs that take place at different times, allowing visitors to interact with these animals.

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center When you visit, you’ll want to be sure and spend time both outside and inside this unique museum-like space.

But the outdoor exhibits are truly unique and highlight Kentucky’s natural beauty.

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources There’s a paved path that winds through the property, giving everyone access to the variety of animals that call these habitats home.

As you wander along the path, you’ll be able to observe the animals as if they were completely in the wild. The variety and natural aspect of the exhibits are impressive and enjoyable.

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center The Elk are striking and interesting to watch as they interact with each other.

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center You’ll want to spend a good amount of time watching the black bear, assuming he’s not sleeping, that is.

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center You’ve likely not seen a bobcat in the wild, so observing this one in its natural habitat is fascinating.

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center The bison are also very intriguing to watch and the overlook and path make it easy.

The staff at the Wildlife Center often have enrichment for the animals where they interact with them - and you can watch!

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center Be sure to check them out on Facebook for several videos of these interactions and you’ll want to plan a visit to be a part of it.

The property has other features that easily make this a great day trip destination.

Yelp/Kelly Y.

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center There are two fishing ponds, a pier, picnic area, and several trails where you can explore the native plants and foliage of Kentucky.

The Salato Wildlife Education Center is a delightful place for animal lovers of all ages, and also those who simply love Kentucky.

GoogleMaps/Joy Cash The Center celebrates our state and its natural beauty and you’ll love the relaxed, beautiful atmosphere they’ve created for you to visit.

The Salato Wildlife Education Center is a relaxing oasis in Kentucky for both the animals who live there and the visitors who enjoy exploring Kentucky’s natural beauty. Have you been to this little known center? They have plans to expand, so it’s definitely a spot to visit and keep on your radar!

GoogleMaps/Cynthia Collins

This unique indoor/outdoor wildlife center aims to keep these native animals in their natural habitats, while still allowing visitors to get up close and see how they live.

Facebook/Salato Wildlife Education Center

When you visit, you’ll want to be sure and spend time both outside and inside this unique museum-like space.

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

There’s a paved path that winds through the property, giving everyone access to the variety of animals that call these habitats home.

The Elk are striking and interesting to watch as they interact with each other.

You’ll want to spend a good amount of time watching the black bear, assuming he’s not sleeping, that is.

You’ve likely not seen a bobcat in the wild, so observing this one in its natural habitat is fascinating.

The bison are also very intriguing to watch and the overlook and path make it easy.

Be sure to check them out on Facebook for several videos of these interactions and you’ll want to plan a visit to be a part of it.

Yelp/Kelly Y.

There are two fishing ponds, a pier, picnic area, and several trails where you can explore the native plants and foliage of Kentucky.

GoogleMaps/Joy Cash

The Center celebrates our state and its natural beauty and you’ll love the relaxed, beautiful atmosphere they’ve created for you to visit.

The Salato Wildlife Education Center is located at 1 Sportsman’s Ln. Frankfort, KY 40601. For more information, including an online brochure and maps, visit their website here.

And for another unique animal adventure in Kentucky, be sure to check out our recent article here.

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